Remains identified as missing vet

Human remains found in a shallow pool last week have been identified as those of missing vet Catherine Gowing, police have said.

Ms Gowing, who was originally from Clonlee, Co Offaly, in the Irish Republic, was last seen on Friday October 12 at a supermarket near her home in New Brighton, Flintshire, North Wales.

A 46-year old man, from Gynnedd, North Wales, has since been charged with her murder. The remains were found on Wednesday in a shallow pool within a field in Sealand, Deeside.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Mark Pierce said: "The post mortem confirmed our fears and the results have been passed to Catherine's family.

"We are also awaiting identification of further remains found on the banks of the River Dee in Ferry Lane, Higher Ferry, Chester, on Friday. The search continues for further remains and any other evidence which will assist this investigation."

Ms Gowing was reported missing when she failed to arrive for work at the Evans Veterinary Practice in Mold, Flintshire, on Monday October 15.

Later that week police recovered her car which had been torched and abandoned in a disused quarry.

Clive Sharp, 46, of no fixed address, has been charged with murder and was remanded in custody until January 7 when he is due to enter his plea.

DCI Pierce repeated his appeal for any information regarding any sightings of Ms Gowing's Irish registered Renault Clio, registration 00D 99970, and Clive Sharp's black Volvo, registration S40 AG58 JHE, since Friday October 12, particularly in the Sealand area.

He said: "I would like to hear from anyone who saw any suspicious activity in fields in the Manor Road area of Sealand to contact police on 101."